MINI Cooper vs. Ford Shelby GT500 Review

Performance
With that kind of horsepower, the Shelby GT500 is a genuine speedster. When it comes to horsepower, the Shelby GT500 packs quite a wallop and will knock the MINI Cooper down a few rungs. However, bear in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their similar turning radii, the MINI Cooper and the Ford most definitely handle almost the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Ford Shelby GT500 has a more sizeable engine than the MINI Cooper. Note that smaller engines typically get better gas mileage, but a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder. Torque equals pickup, and the Ford Shelby GT500 will have picked up and gone by the time the Cooper finally gets moving.

Utility
The MINI Cooper and the Ford can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Convenience
You will have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Ford Shelby GT500 than with the MINI.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the MINI Cooper offers a bit more head room than the Ford Shelby GT500, there really isn't much of a difference. The MINI offers more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the Ford Shelby GT500 does.

Dimensions
The Shelby GT500 is tremendously heavier than the Cooper. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Ford Shelby GT500 than the MINI because of its larger tank. The MINI Cooper fits in smaller parking spaces than the Ford Shelby GT500. The Ford Shelby GT500's longer wheelbase will result in a smoother, more stable ride; however, the MINI Cooper may give a nimbler feel in daily traffic.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The MINI Cooper is considerably cheaper to get to the dealership than the Shelby GT500. The Ford requires a lot of gasoline compared to the MINI Cooper. As far as fuel economy, the MINI bests the Ford Shelby GT500. The MINI Cooper is tremendously less pricey than the Ford Shelby GT500 when it comes to MSRP. The MINI Cooper will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Ford Shelby GT500.

Warranty
The basic warranty that comes with the Ford isn't quite as generous as the MINI Cooper's.